For anyone holding cryptocurrency, true self-custody is key. But a hidden worry often comes with the hardware wallets we use: where they're made. Many popular devices are built or assembled in various countries. This raises real concerns about supply chain risks – the chance that a secret flaw might be added before your device even reaches you. How can you truly trust the tool guarding your digital money?

The BitBox02 by Shift Crypto offers a clear answer. Unlike other companies that spread production globally, the BitBox02 stands out because its hardware and software are fully designed, made, and assembled in Switzerland. This isn't just a label; it's a promise of control. With Switzerland's famous engineering quality and strict rules, every step of making the device is tightly managed. This greatly reduces any risk of tampering.

Beyond its secure Swiss roots, the BitBox02 focuses on simplicity, open-source transparency, and a minimal attack surface. While Bitcoin fans will love its straightforward design, the multi-currency version also supports Ethereum, Litecoin, and thousands of ERC-20 tokens.

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Pros & Cons

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BitBox02 Quick Specs

• Manufacturer: Shift Crypto (Switzerland)
• Type: USB-C Multicoin or Bitcoin-only hardware wallet
• Release Year: 2024 (latest firmware updates)
• Price: $175 (includes microSD card)
• Connectivity: USB-C only
• Display: Monochrome OLED 128x64px
• Security: Secure chip (Atecc608B) + open-source firmware
• Backup/Recovery: Optional microSD backup or 24-word phrase
• Firmware: Fully Open-Source
• 2FA Support: FIDO2-compatible
• Mobile/Desktop Integration: BitBoxApp (Desktop only)
• Supported Assets: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and ERC-20 tokens
• Special Features:
  
  • Device Password
  • Optional BIP39 passphrase 

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How I Used the BitBox02

For this review, I tested the BitBox02 Multi Edition, which supports Bitcoin $BTC, Ethereum $ETH, Litecoin $LTC, and thousands of ERC-20 tokens — but not Solana $SOL, Helium $HNT, or some newer altcoin ecosystems like Toncoin $TON or Pi Network  $PI. You should know upfront: the Bitcoin-only and multi-coin versions are two separate firmware builds. You can’t switch between them, so pick the one that suits your portfolio from the start.

The setup was quick. I downloaded the BitBoxApp, plugged in the device via USB-C, and was guided through PIN setup and wallet creation. Like other wallets, it generates a standard seed phrase, but BitBox02 gives you the option to automatically back it up onto the included microSD card. It’s a convenient feature that reduces the chance of human error during setup — though I still strongly recommend writing the seed down on paper or using a metal backup to ensure redundancy in case the card is lost or corrupted.

The touch-based interface is surprisingly intuitive. There are no physical buttons — instead, you slide or tap along the sides of the device to confirm actions. It took a bit of practice, but it’s functional and more elegant than I expected.

To simulate real-world use, I made test transactions with $BTC, $ETH, and some ERC-20 tokens including $USDC and $LINK. I also added some known meme coins ($SHIB, $BOB & $ELON) from my Rabby wallet to check compatibility. ERC-20 tokens like Shiba Inu ($SHIB) showed up fine, but since Solana isn’t supported, many newer meme coins and DeFi projects simply won’t be compatible.

The BitBox02 doesn’t support NFTs natively — you can interact with them via Rabby, but the device itself won’t display images or metadata, which is a miss for collectors.

One thing I liked was the added FIDO2 functionality — you can use your BitBox02 as a secure second factor for logging into web accounts, which adds to its value beyond just crypto.

Still, the reliance on USB connectivity felt like a weak point. The device assumes your desktop or laptop is safe, and without air-gapping, Bluetooth, or QR-based signing, it doesn’t offer much insulation from host-device malware threats. That’s a tradeoff worth keeping in mind if you handle large sums or frequently transact.

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Rating (Overall: 4/5)

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BitBox02: A Solid Yet Limited Option for Privacy-Focused Users

While the BitBox02 isn’t flashy, it delivers what many beginners and Bitcoin-focused users are looking for: simplicity, transparency, and minimal friction. It’s compact, open-source, and made in Switzerland — factors that inspire a baseline level of trust.

That said, it’s not air-gapped, it lacks modern conveniences like NFC or QR-code signing, and its limited coin support could be a dealbreaker if your portfolio includes ecosystems like Solana or new memecoins. The $175 price tag makes it a direct competitor with sturdier, air-gapped wallets that support a broader range of assets and don’t rely on the security of your desktop environment — like the Keystone 3 Pro and the Ellipal Titan 2.0.

What you are ultimately paying for here is design minimalism, optional convenience features like 2FA, and a profound "Swiss peace of mind" This isn't merely a marketing slogan; it directly addresses the critical supply chain risks inherent in global hardware manufacturing. By designing, manufacturing, and assembling both hardware and software exclusively in Switzerland, Shift Crypto significantly mitigates the potential for tampering or vulnerabilities being introduced during production. For some users, this unparalleled assurance is more than enough to justify the investment.

Lukas is your trusted guide for navigating the best crypto hardware wallets of 2025. Their deep dives cut through the noise, empowering you to protect your digital assets. Explore more of their invaluable resources here:

• Best Bitcoin-Only Hardware Wallets of 2025 – For maximalists who value simplicity and sovereignty.
• Best Metal Seed Phrase Backups in 2025 – The only way to protect your seed words from fire, water, and time.
• Top 20 Hardware Wallets for Crypto Cold Storage – A complete guide to the most secure and trusted devices available today.
• Best Biometric Hardware Wallets in 2025 – Because privacy and convenience don’t have to be opposites.
• Best Credit Card-Sized Hardware Wallets in 2025 – Perfect for semi-cold storage and covert carry.
• Top 6 Hardware Wallets for NFTs in 2025 – Yes, even your digital collectibles deserve cold storage.

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FAQs

• What is the BitBox02?

The BitBox02 is a Swiss-made hardware wallet developed by Shift Crypto, designed for secure self-custody of your cryptocurrency. It comes in two versions: Bitcoin-only and Multi Edition. The Multi Edition supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and thousands of ERC-20 tokens, while the Bitcoin-only model is tailored for maximalists seeking maximum privacy and simplicity. It connects via USB-C and features a minimalist touch interface, secure chip-backed protection, and microSD card backup support.

• Does the BitBox02 support Hyperliquid $HYPE, Monero $XMR, or Official Trump $TRUMP tokens?

The BitBox02 does not support Hyperliquid $HYPE, Monero $XMR, Official Trump $TRUMP, or Official Melania Meme $MELANIA. It currently lacks support for Solana, TON, and other ecosystems where many meme coins and altcoins are issued. While the Multi Edition covers a wide range of ERC-20 and EVM-compatible tokens, newer chains and privacy coins like Monero are out of scope.

• Which software wallets are compatible with the BitBox02?

The BitBox02 is primarily used with the native BitBoxApp, which supports full portfolio management and firmware updates. For advanced users, the device also works with popular third-party wallets including Electrum, Specter Desktop, Sparrow Wallet (for Bitcoin), MyEtherWallet, Rabby Wallet, and NuFi (for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens). Compatibility may depend on your operating system and whether you’re using the Multi or Bitcoin-only edition.

• Can I use the BitBox02 to buy crypto or interact with DeFi and staking platforms?

Yes — but only through external integrations. The BitBoxApp itself does not offer native DeFi or swap features, but you can connect the wallet to Ethereum-based services via Rabby Wallet (using the WebHID bridge) & interact with DApps. Keep in mind that your experience may be limited compared to hardware wallets with deeper Ledger Live or Trezor Suite integrations.

• Is the BitBox02 a good wallet for new and upcoming cryptocurrencies or meme coins?

Not exactly. The BitBox02 Multi Edition supports major coins and ERC-20 tokens but lacks support for Solana, BNB Chain, TON, and many newer chains where altcoins and meme tokens like $HYPE or $TRUMP are launched. If your portfolio includes newer or more speculative assets, you may want to look at hardware wallets with broader multi-chain compatibility.

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Testimonials

Special thanks to Cyber Scrilla and BTC Sessions for their in-depth tutorials. Their content was invaluable in helping me confidently set up and use my Bitbox02 the right way:

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